Neston-based Little Actors Theatre Company (LATC) has had a great start to the year with the news its application for charitable status has been approved by the Charities Commission.

The LATC has been based in Neston for nine years and offers professionally led drama, singing and dance classes for children.

The LATC strategy has always been to offer access for all to the performing arts. Charitable status allows development of this strategy and access to funding which will benefit the theatre company as well as the local community.

Plans for the future will include expanding fundraising so that they can offer access to the arts to all children whatever their background.

LATC hopes to develop a core of volunteers in order to help provide the community classes. Volunteers would gain experience in working in the theatre alongside theatre professionals.

People in the community with skills in fundraising, costume, prop making, and design skills would be an invaluable asset for the theatre company.

Currently Neston Theatre School, part of Little Actors Theatre Company, provides community-based, performing arts activities for children and young people.

This year, Neston Theatre School has been entered into the 2014 Leverhulme Drama Festival with a new play which created with professional actor Mike Lockley.

There are subsidised or free places available in for children interested in joining the ensemble.

In August they will again be offering a week long theatre summer camp for ages five to 11, which is free to low-income families.